Rewritten Title:
Government Directs Swift Settlement of Retirees’ Outstanding Benefits – Key Details Inside
New Directive Ensures Timely Payment of Retirees’ Benefits
The Iranian government has issued an official directive to all executive bodies, mandating the prompt settlement of retirees’ outstanding end-of-service benefits for the year 2023. The directive, dated 404/5/22, emphasizes strict compliance with legal and regulatory frameworks to ensure timely disbursement.
Legal Framework and Budget Allocations
Under Article 19 of the Budget and Planning Law and Article 28 of the amendments to the Financial Regulations Act, the government has allocated funds specifically for clearing retirees’ pending end-of-service bonuses by the end of 2023. The allocated budget, detailed in Table No. 9 of the 2024 National Budget Law, ensures that executive agencies adhere to legal protocols while processing payments.
Key Responsibilities of Executive Agencies
Each executive body is required to submit complete beneficiary details, including:
- National ID number
- Retirement date
- Bank account details (Sheba number)
- Payable bonus amount (capped at 5.2 billion rials per individual)
These details must be verified and submitted to the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Finance (Treasury Department) for processing. The accuracy of submitted information and the final bonus amount remain the responsibility of the respective executive agency.
Streamlined Payment Mechanism
The Treasury Department will facilitate payments through a credit-based disbursement system, transferring funds to the executive agencies’ designated bank accounts for onward crediting to retirees. This process aims to enhance liquidity management and ensure direct beneficiary access.
In exceptional cases—such as critical illnesses—the highest authority within the executive agency may adjust the payment priority at their discretion.
Progress on Retirees’ Pending Claims
Mirzaei, head of the National Retirement Fund, provided updates on retirees’ outstanding claims:
- Delayed Deductions Cleared: Previously, retirees faced delays in deductions for subsidiary funds (e.g., welfare services). These were fully settled by May 2023, ensuring no further backlog.
- 2020 Retired Teachers’ Claims: A significant portion (approximately 10 trillion rials) was allocated in this year’s budget. 50% was paid in June, with the remaining 4.5 trillion rials slated for August 2023.
- 2023 Adjustments: Pending claims from the first 8 months of 2023 (totaling 14 trillion rials) began disbursement in June and will be fully settled by year-end.
Pending Claims for Medical University Retirees
A separate category involves 15% adjustment claims for retirees from medical universities. While lawmakers approved funding via asset sales, the designated assets are currently undergoing stock market listing procedures, delaying immediate liquidation. Mirzaei assured that payments would proceed as soon as funding is secured.
Conclusion: Commitment to Retirees’ Welfare
The government’s directive underscores its dedication to resolving retirees’ financial entitlements efficiently. With structured payment plans and strict oversight, authorities aim to eliminate delays and uphold retirees’ rights in line with national regulations.
Note: All measures align with Iran’s legal and financial frameworks, ensuring transparency and accountability in benefit disbursements.
